How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80240438?

There Were Some Problems Installing Updates with 0x80240438

Windows update errors are not a new thing. Windows update error 0x80240438 might pop up when you try to update your Windows 10/11. The complete error message reads:

There were some problems installing updates, but we’ll try again later. If you keep seeing this and want to search the web or contact support for information, this may help. (0x80240438)

Usually, poor internet connection, virus infection, system file corruption, and incomplete Windows update components, might be blamed. Without further delay, let’s jump into it!

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How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80240438 on Windows 10/11?

Fix 1: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

To address Windows update error 0x80240438, you can run a Windows inbuilt tool called Windows Update Troubleshooter. This tool will help you to fix most issues related to Windows Update. To do so:

Step 1. Press Win + I to open Windows Settings.

Step 2. Navigate to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.

Step 3. Select Windows Update and hit Run the troubleshooter.

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Fix 2: Repair Corrupted System Files

Corrupted system files are also responsible for Windows Update failed with 0x80240438. To repair them, you can run System File Checker and Deployment Image Servicing and Management in order. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1. Type cmd in the search bar to locate Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.

Step 2. In the command window, run sfc /scannow and don’t forget to hit Enter.

Step 3. After completion, type the following command and hit Enter.

DISM /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth

Step 4. Reboot your system to see if Windows update error 0x80240438 disappears.

Fix 3: Install the Update Manually

If Windows Update failed to check for updates with error 0x80240438, you can go to the Microsoft’s official website to download the update manually. Follow these guidelines:

Step 1. Launch your browser and go to Microsoft Update Catalog.

Step 2. Type the KB number that you fail to install and hit Search.

Step 3. Find the update according to your system requirements and hit the Download button beside it.

Fix 4: Reset Windows Update Components

When you have problems installing a Windows update, it is a good option to reset Windows Update components. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1. Launch Command Prompt with administrative rights.

Step 2. Type the following commands one by one and don’t forget to hit Enter to disable related services.

net stop wuauserv

net stop cryptSvc

net stop bits

net stop msiserver

Step 3. Run the following commands one by one to rename the SoftwareDistribution and catroot2 folders.

Ren %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.bak

Ren %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 catroot2.bak

Step 4. Execute the commands below one by one to restart related services.

net launch wuauserv

net launch cryptSvc

net launch bits

net launch msiserver

# Other Useful Tips

• Restart related services.
• Check internet connection.
• Scan for malware or viruses.
• Disable Windows Defender Firewall Temporarily.

Final Words

After reading this post, Windows update error 0x80240438 might be a piece of cake for you. If you have other similar issues with Windows Update, you can also try these tips and solutions. Have a nice day!